Co-presented by Telefilm Canada in partnership with the Consulate General of Canada in Los Angeles and with the support of the Quebec Delegation in Los Angeles

If you thought that Canada was just an exporting nation of cinematic natural resources like the two Ryans (Gosling and Reynolds), Denis Villeneuve, Jean-Marc Vallée and even Margaret Atwood (with a pair of series, “The Handmaid’s Tale” and “Alias Grace”), think again. Yes, there is a long, distinguished history of Canadians working south of the border, but just wait until you see what’s being made by Canadian film artists on their own turf. If you’re curious about what’s going on up there above the 49th parallel, here are seven excellent examples.

After all, so we’ve been told, the world needs more Canada. Proudly but modestly echoing those sentiments, we are thrilled to present Canada Now 2019: a diverse, engaging, decidedly entertaining selection of the best in contemporary Canadian cinema. From sci-fi romance to documentary to psychological drama to politically charged personal cinema, this cinematic septet reveals the seismic shifts underway in Canada (and globally) in relation to such potent, urgently relevant issues as the history of indigenous peoples, race relations and gender politics.

In this Canada Now showcase, you’ll find impressive new work by veteran filmmakers and rookie directors alike. As always, the Canada Now showcase celebrates the independent spirit that has always been a hallmark of Canadian cinema.